If you’re into the world of custom vehicles, old-school vans offer a perfect canvas for modern upgrades. With their classic style and roomy interiors, these vintage rides are ideal for transforming into unique, personalized creations. Whether you’re looking to build the ultimate camper, mobile business, or just a head-turning cruiser, these 25 old-school vans have the potential to become your next great project.
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Volkswagen Type 2 (VW Bus)
The iconic VW Bus is a symbol of the 1960s counterculture, but its spacious interior and simple mechanics make it an ideal candidate for modern upgrades. With room for a full camper setup or a retro custom design, this van can be transformed into a luxury travel vehicle. Its air-cooled engine can easily be replaced with more modern, fuel-efficient alternatives, while keeping its nostalgic charm intact.
Ford Econoline (1960s-1980s)
Ford’s Econoline, especially the first and second generations, offers a strong, boxy frame perfect for custom conversions. Its sturdy V8 engine options from the 1960s-1980s provide solid performance, and the van’s wide, open interior makes it ideal for anything from a camper conversion to a mobile shop. The classic exterior design remains a favorite among customization enthusiasts.
Chevrolet G10/G20/G30
The Chevrolet G-Series vans have a cult following among custom van lovers due to their ruggedness and simple construction. These vans come with powerful V8 options, which are still reliable today. The flat, spacious interior is perfect for modern upgrades like mobile workstations, luxury camper conversions, or retro-themed restorations.
Dodge A100
The Dodge A100 is a compact van with a forward-control layout, which gives it a unique look and handling style. Its quirky, mid-century design is highly sought after for restoration projects, and it’s perfect for custom builds thanks to its simplicity. The A100’s compact size also makes it a great candidate for electric vehicle (EV) conversions.
GMC Vandura
The GMC Vandura gained notoriety in pop culture, making it a classic favorite for modern-day customization. Its heavy-duty frame and roomy interior make it an excellent choice for a high-end camper or a sleek mobile office. The Vandura’s versatility allows for mechanical upgrades like newer transmissions or fuel-injected engines for better reliability.
Volkswagen LT
The Volkswagen LT is larger and more powerful than the VW Bus, making it a favorite for bigger conversion projects. Known for its durability, this van can accommodate full living quarters inside, making it perfect for camper van enthusiasts. Upgrading the engine to a modern diesel or electric powertrain can make it even more efficient and eco-friendly.
Dodge B-Series (Ram Van)
The Dodge B-Series Ram Van was widely used for everything from commercial fleets to camper vans, making it a popular choice for custom builds. Its spacious design and variety of engine options, including powerful V8s, provide flexibility for modern upgrades. Whether you want a luxury van conversion or a rugged off-road adventure vehicle, the Ram Van offers a solid base.
Chevrolet Corvair Greenbrier
The Corvair Greenbrier’s unique rear-engine design gives it a standout look that makes it a fun van for custom projects. Its compact size and classic 1960s styling make it a perfect candidate for a retro camper or show vehicle. Many enthusiasts upgrade the engine and suspension for better modern-day performance while maintaining its distinctive vintage charm.
Toyota HiAce (First Gen)
The Toyota HiAce is known for its durability and practicality, making it a favorite for custom van builds, especially in countries where it’s still common. The first-generation models are compact but offer enough interior space for camper conversions or small mobile workstations. With its reliable engine, the HiAce can be upgraded with modern suspension and comfort features.
Bedford CF
The Bedford CF is a British classic, well-loved by camper van enthusiasts for its versatility and solid build quality. It has a large, open cargo area that lends itself well to interior customizations. Many CF owners upgrade the engines to more fuel-efficient models while retaining the van’s charming retro look.
International Harvester Metro Van
The Metro Van’s rounded, vintage styling makes it a standout for custom projects. It was originally used as a delivery van, so it offers a spacious interior that can be transformed into anything from a food truck to a luxury camper. Modern engine upgrades and custom interiors make this a fantastic canvas for creativity.
Peugeot J7
The Peugeot J7 is a charmingly utilitarian French van, ideal for anyone seeking to create a unique custom vehicle. Its simple design and boxy structure make it easy to retrofit for modern conveniences, whether as a camper or a mobile boutique. The J7 is also popular for electric conversions due to its lightweight design.
Mercedes-Benz T1 (Bremen Transporter)
The Mercedes-Benz T1 is known for its reliability and durability, making it a great candidate for a modern upgrade. The spacious cargo area allows for a variety of customization possibilities, from luxurious camper setups to mobile workshops. Its sturdy engine can be replaced with newer, more efficient models, making it a versatile option for custom projects.
Nissan Caravan (E20)
The Nissan Caravan E20 offers a perfect blend of classic design and practical functionality. With its wide body and ample interior space, it’s popular for van lifers looking to add modern amenities like solar power or advanced cooling systems. The engine and transmission can be easily swapped for more efficient, modern alternatives, giving it new life.
Ford Transit Mk1
The first-generation Ford Transit is one of the most recognizable vans in Europe, known for its durability and versatility. Its simple mechanical design allows for easy upgrades, whether you’re adding modern engines, better suspension, or luxury interiors. The Transit’s boxy shape also makes it highly adaptable for custom interiors.
Renault Estafette
The Renault Estafette is a French van with a unique design, perfect for anyone wanting to create a one-of-a-kind custom vehicle. Its compact size makes it ideal for small camper conversions or mobile coffee shops. With some mechanical upgrades, the Estafette can be made much more reliable for modern use, while retaining its distinct look.
Mazda Bongo
The Mazda Bongo is a small van with a cult following among camper enthusiasts. Its compact size and versatile interior make it perfect for modern camper conversions. The Bongo’s simple mechanics allow for easy upgrades, including modern heating, cooling, and engine improvements to enhance its performance for road trips.
Citroën H Van
The Citroën H Van is iconic for its corrugated steel body and charmingly quirky design. It’s widely used as a food truck or mobile business, but with modern upgrades, it can be transformed into a unique camper or adventure vehicle. The original engine is often swapped for a more efficient model, and the interior is easily customized for modern needs.
Holden Sandman
The Holden Sandman is an Australian classic, combining the utility of a van with the style of a muscle car. It’s perfect for custom builds aimed at adding modern tech while keeping its retro appeal. The Sandman’s wide cargo area is perfect for camper conversions or surf vans, and many enthusiasts upgrade the engine to improve performance.
Vauxhall Vivaro (Early Models)
The early Vauxhall Vivaro models are a solid choice for those looking to upgrade to a modern camper or commercial van. Its spacious interior and reliable engine make it an excellent foundation for customizing. The Vivaro can be easily modified with modern conveniences like updated interiors and upgraded suspension systems for better comfort.
Fiat 238
The Fiat 238 is a compact, Italian van with a charmingly retro design that makes it perfect for custom conversions. Its smaller size lends itself well to city driving, while the roomy cargo space is ideal for camper conversions. Many Fiat 238 owners upgrade the van with modern engines and electrical systems for enhanced reliability.
Dodge Sportsman
The Dodge Sportsman is a classic full-size van, widely used for family travel in the 1970s and 80s. Its large frame makes it an ideal choice for van conversions, allowing for full living setups with modern conveniences. Engine upgrades and interior overhauls turn the Sportsman into a luxurious camper or adventure vehicle.
Mitsubishi L300
The Mitsubishi L300 is a highly adaptable van, known for its reliability and spacious interior. Its simple, boxy design is perfect for modern camper conversions or mobile businesses. The L300 can be fitted with more efficient engines and modern amenities, making it a great choice for those wanting a balance of vintage charm and modern comfort.
Opel Blitz
The Opel Blitz is a vintage van with a storied history, often used for commercial purposes in its heyday. It has a rugged, reliable design, making it a popular choice for custom restorations. The large cargo area and straightforward mechanics allow for creative customizations, whether for camping, mobile retail, or promotional vehicles.
Austin J4 Van
The Austin J4 Van is a British classic, known for its compact size and robust build. It’s ideal for custom conversions, particularly for mobile shops or retro-style campers. With upgrades to its engine and suspension, the J4 can be brought into the modern age while still retaining its charming vintage aesthetic.
This article originally appeared in MyCarMakesNoise.
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